Viva Expedition: Lost Civilizations Tour

Itinerary

• Day 1 - 4:

  We leave Lima, the colonial capital of Peru, and head out along the coast to the Paracas Marine reserve, the most important wildlife sanctuary on the Peruvian coast. A short drive inland takes us to Huacachina, a tiny desert oasis nestled amongst huge sand dunes, and to Nazca, named after the ancient culture that inhabited the area in around 200AD. We will take a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines that, to this day, remain unexplained by scientists and archaeologists alike.

• Day 5 - 8:

  We visit the fascinating Chauchilla cemetery, and stop at the ancient inca port of Puerto Inca, before climbing in altitude to arrive in Arequipa, a beautiful city surrounded by spectacular mountains. Explore the Monastery of Santa Catalina and visit 'Juanita' - the Ice Princess, a frozen Inca sacrifice recently discovered at the summit of Mount Ampato. We then arrive at Colca Canyon, arguably the world's deepest canyon, and home to numerous Andean Condors.

• Day 9 - 12:

  We will take an early morning trip to view the Condors circling on the thermals rising up from the canyon floor and enjoy some time hiking in the area. Travelling through the Peruvian high country, we arrive in Cusco, the archaeological capital of the Americas, and our base to explore the Inca culture and the famous ruins of Machu Picchu.

• Day 13 - 16:

  After exploring Cusco we head off into the Sacred Valley of the Incas to visit the colonial village of Pisac, famous for its lively market, and the massive fortress of Ollantaytambo. Following the footsteps of the ancient Incas we walk the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. You will be amazed and intrigued to learn all there is to know about this mysterious race from your local guide.

• Day 17 - 23:

  Returning from Machu Picchu we have some time to relax in Cusco before driving south across the Andean plains to arrive on the shores of Lake Titicaca. We will visit floating reed islands and have a chance to experience the local culture with an overnight Island homestay. Visit Taquile Island, famous for its traditional handicrafts and isolated way of life, before finally leaving Peru and crossing into Bolivia toarrive in La Paz, our final destination.

• Note about the Inca Trail: Due to tight regulations on the Inca trail availability is limited on a first in first served basis only. We cannot guarantee your place until we have received your booking and deposit and have processed the request for an Inca Trail ticket. To ensure your space on the trail we advise you book early. However if space is unavailable we offer alternative treks which all include a visit to the ruins Machu Picchu.

* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share. Click here to see full Terms & Conditions.